Extreme heat or heatwave is a period of unusual and uncomfortable hot weather that could negatively affect human health. Extreme heat can also affect community infrastructure (such as power supply and public transport) and other services. Extreme heat can affect everyone, however some people are more vulnerable.

Victoria assists with planning for extreme heat and heatwaves, and supports research.

The department's heat health alert system notifies local governments, program areas, hospitals and statewide and major metropolitan health and community service providers and the general community of forecast extreme heat and heatwave conditions which are likely to impact on human health more information